A Yearly Ritual of Connection
Our hand-labeling tradition transforms the final step of winemaking into a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and the human touch that makes each bottle truly special.
The Annual Gathering
Each autumn, when the new vintage has completed its aging and is ready for release, we invite a carefully chosen group of friends, family members, and community supporters to join us for our hand-labeling evening.
This intimate gathering has become one of our most cherished traditions – a moment when the wine truly comes to life through the personal touch of human hands and the warmth of shared purpose.
The hand-labeling evening is when our wine receives its soul. Each person who touches a bottle leaves a part of themselves in that wine’s story.
– Estate 42 Tradition
Why We Choose Human Hands
In an age of automation, we deliberately choose the human touch because it adds something no machine can replicate — character, soul, and story.
Unique Character
No two bottles are exactly alike. Slight variations in label placement create individual character, making each bottle one-of-a-kind rather than mass-produced.
Personal Connection
Each bottle carries the personal touch of someone who cares about the wine. This human connection creates an emotional bond between maker and drinker.
Community Celebration
The labeling becomes a community event that strengthens bonds and creates shared memories, making each vintage a collective achievement to celebrate.
Artisanal Authenticity
Hand-labeling reinforces our commitment to artisanal methods throughout the entire winemaking process, from vine to bottle.
Collector Appeal
Wine collectors value the authenticity and story that comes with hand-labeled bottles, knowing they own something truly handcrafted from start to finish.
Living Tradition
This tradition connects us to centuries of winemaking heritage when every aspect of wine production was done by hand with care and attention.
The Hand-Labeling Process
Our labeling process is carefully orchestrated to ensure quality while maintaining the personal, artisanal character that makes each bottle special.
Careful Craftsmanship
Each participant receives a brief orientation on proper label placement and technique. While we embrace the natural variations that come with hand application, we ensure every bottle meets our quality standards.
Bottle Preparation
Each bottle is cleaned and inspected for perfect condition
Label Application
Labels are carefully positioned and smoothed by hand
Quality Check
Each bottle receives a final inspection before packaging
Celebration
The evening concludes with wine tasting and shared stories
Our Labeling Family
The people who participate in our hand-labeling tradition become part of the Estate 42 family, connected forever to the wines they help create.
Friends of the Vineyard
Long-time supporters and wine enthusiasts who have become part of our extended family.
Family Members
Multiple generations participate, ensuring our values continue through the years.
Community Members
Local residents from Vetren who help preserve traditional methods.
More Than Marketing – It’s Our Identity
We hand-label because it represents everything we believe about winemaking.
Collector Benefits
- Each bottle is genuinely unique
- Personal connection to the wine’s story
- Conversation starter
- Authentic provenance
Emotional Value
- Connection to tradition
- Support for craftsmanship
- Participation in living heritage
- Anticipation for future releases
“When you buy a hand-labeled bottle from Estate 42, you’re not just buying wine — you’re buying into a philosophy that values human connection, craftsmanship, and tradition.”
Own a Piece of Our Tradition
Every hand-labeled bottle of Estate 42 carries the warmth of human touch and the story of our annual gathering. When you hold one of our bottles, you hold a piece of our family tradition.
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Hand-labeled bottles
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Annual ceremony
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Unique character